Photographic Paper & Enlarging Paper

Enlarging Paper

When creating quality prints in your darkroom, using the right enlarging paper is the most important step. Just like many other products and materials in photography, photographic paper comes in a variety of sizes, specifications, and qualities. Choosing the right paper will ensure your prints look exactly how you want them.

What exactly is enlarging paper?

Enlarging paper, or photographic paper, is paper treated with photosensitive chemicals that lets photographers develop their images into large or small prints.

A photographer inserts a negative into a darkroom enlarger and places a piece of enlarging paper on an easel below. When the enlarger’s light turns on, it projects the positive version of the negative onto the photosensitive paper, beginning the photo-development process. 

After the exposure is complete, the photographer processes the sheet of enlarging paper with various chemical baths to halt the paper’s photosensitivity and preserve the image.

What kind of enlarging paper do I need?

The most important distinction in enlarging paper is color vs black and white. Because black-and-white darkroom development is more common, there’s a much larger selection of black-and-white enlarging paper. However, color photographers still have plenty of options to choose from.

When selecting photo paper, first consider what type of finish you want your image to have. Do you prefer the finished look of a glossy or luster paper, or do you like the modern look of a matte or semi-matte? If you’re not sure what you’d prefer, consider purchasing a variety pack and printing the same image on each type of paper to see what appeals to you.

Other paper considerations

Photographers can purchase enlarging paper in several different sizes, materials, and quantities. While it may seem like a good idea to save money by purchasing a large pack of paper, it's often wise to start with a smaller pack first to make sure you like that selection enough to purchase it in bulk.

No two papers are the same. Plus, most photographers develop preferences over time, so start out small and experiment with different options.

Top enlarging paper brands to choose from

Brands like Ilford, Hahnemuhle, and Artista offer beautiful photographic paper in a plenty of sizes, materials, and finishes. If you’re not sure where to start, our customer service team can advise you on what’s available.